Jay D. Dye

July 12, 1933 – March 19, 2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Jay Dee Dye on March 19, 2025, at the age of 91. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, and friend. His warmth, kindness, and generosity touched the lives of many.

Born on July 12, 1933, in Ansley, Louisiana, Jay was a proud U.S. Army veteran, serving on the Bikini Atoll. After his military service, he earned a basketball scholarship to Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, GA. Jay was an exceptional center, holding many scoring and rebound records; as a result, he later received the honor of being inducted into Oglethorpe’s Hall of Fame. He remained in the metro-Atlanta area for the rest of his life, dedicating over 30 years to the Cobb County school system as a teacher, administrator, and most notably coach at Osborne.

Following retirement, Jay pursued his passion for woodworking, crafting intricate wooden puzzles that he lovingly shared with family and friends. His generosity extended far beyond his immediate circle—he regularly sent puzzles to Walter Reed Military Hospital and to troops stationed overseas.

Jay was first married to Grace Lynnell Nelson Dye of Oxford, Alabama, whom he met while stationed at Fort McClellan in Anniston, Alabama. Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming three children: Stanton, Lindi, and Patrick. After Lynnell’s passing, Jay found love again with Elena Mae Thomas White Dye, embracing her two children, April and Candace, as his own. Their blended family flourished with love, shared memories, and the joy of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After more than 40 years of marriage, Jay endured the loss of Elena but was fortunate to find companionship once more with Alice Medlin, who brought joy to his final years through travel, dancing, and time spent with dear friends.

Jay is predeceased by Lynnell Dye, Elena Dye, Candace Ellison (Tony), and grandson Abel Westray. Jay is survived by his brother Buddy (Phyllis), his sister Velma, children Stanton, Lindi, and Patrick (Donna), as well as many grandchildren: JT Starnes, Laura Ellison, Kayla Allen, Jordan Dye, Roland Trey Castellanos, Noah Dye, Sylvia Dye, and Tristan Dye. He also had great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many loved ones who will cherish his memory.

Coach Dye will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation for Jay will be held Friday, March 28, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home, 2950 North Cobb Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA 30152. A memorial service will occur Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 1:00 PM, 2950 North Cobb Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA 30152. A graveside service will occur Monday, March 31, 2025 at 11:30 AM at Georgia National Cemetery, 2025 Mt Carmel Church Ln, Canton, GA 30114.